Dogs explore the world with their mouths. They’re naturally curious, and sometimes, that means they eat things they shouldn’t. Gum is a common culprit, often left on tables, dropped on the floor, or easily accessible in purses and backpacks.
The big concern? Xylitol. Many gums contain this sugar substitute, which is incredibly toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can cause serious health problems.
So, can a dog eat gum? The answer is a resounding no, especially if it contains xylitol. Keep reading to learn more about the dangers of xylitol, what to do if your dog eats gum, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
What is Xylitol and Why Is It Dangerous?
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that’s used as a sugar substitute in many products. You’ll find it in sugar-free candies, gums, baked goods, and even some brands of peanut butter.
Xylitol is attractive to manufacturers because it provides sweetness without the calories of real sugar. It’s also believed to promote dental health in humans.
But what’s good for humans can be deadly for dogs.
Xylitol affects dogs differently than it affects humans. In dogs, it triggers a rapid release of insulin, which causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. Xylitol can also cause acute liver failure in dogs.
Unfortunately, cases of xylitol poisoning in pets are on the rise. According to data from the Pet Poison Helpline, calls about xylitol poisonings increased by 108% between 2015 and 2020. In 2020, xylitol poisoning calls were second only to chocolate poisoning calls.
What are the symptoms of xylitol poisoning?
If your dog ate gum, you need to watch them carefully for signs of xylitol poisoning. The sooner you recognize the symptoms, the faster your dog can get treatment.
Symptoms of xylitol poisoning include:
- Weakness, unsteadiness, and shaking
- Collapsing and seizures
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Coma
These symptoms can appear quickly, sometimes within 30 minutes, but usually within a few hours after your dog eats the gum.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you need to seek veterinary care immediately.
What to do if your dog eats gum containing xylitol: Treatment and prognosis
If your dog eats gum with xylitol, it’s critical to get veterinary help immediately. Xylitol is extremely poisonous to dogs, and time is of the essence.
The typical treatment protocol includes:
- Inducing vomiting (if the ingestion was recent and your vet advises it).
- Administering IV fluids containing dextrose to keep your dog’s blood sugar stable.
- Monitoring liver function.
- Providing supportive care as needed.
Unfortunately, there’s no direct antidote for xylitol poisoning. The sooner you get your dog to the vet and start treatment, the better their chances of survival and full recovery.
Prevention is key: Protecting your dog from xylitol
The best way to deal with xylitol poisoning is to prevent it in the first place. Here are some tips to keep your dog safe:
- Dog-proof your home: Keep all products containing xylitol far out of your dog’s reach.
- Be aware of hidden sources of xylitol: Always check labels for xylitol, even on products you wouldn’t expect to contain it.
- Don’t share human food: Many human foods contain xylitol, so it’s best to stick to dog-specific treats.
- Use dog-specific toothpaste: Human toothpaste often contains xylitol, which can be dangerous if swallowed.
Remember to stay vigilant and cautious about what your dog might ingest.
How much xylitol is too much? Typically, a dose of at least 0.05 grams per pound of body weight (0.1 grams per kilogram of body weight) can cause poisoning. Since chewing gum and breath mints can contain anywhere from 0.22 to 1.0 grams of xylitol per piece, even a small amount can be dangerous for your dog.
Final Thoughts
Xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs, and it’s important to be aware of the many products that contain this toxic sugar substitute. To protect your canine companion, keep all xylitol-containing products well out of reach. Read labels carefully, and educate other members of your household and visitors about the dangers of xylitol to dogs.
If you think your dog may have eaten something containing xylitol, contact your veterinarian immediately. You can also call the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 for expert advice. Acting quickly is essential when it comes to xylitol poisoning.